YouTube has unveiled a three-year commitment to invest £3m into growing the UK’s creator economy and traditional screen industries.
The move is designed to “democratise access to high-calibre digital skills” across the country, according to UK managing director Alison Lomax, and will expand training across and support economic growth through regional creative hubs.
The investment will include an expansion of the YouTube-backed, NFTS-led Creator Incubator, to train and accelerate digital content creators partnership with the National Film and Television School.
Speaking in Edinburgh, Lomax said the commitment brings together “YouTube’s expertise in digital-first storytelling and the creator economy with NFTS’ world-leading training”.
“We will strengthen regional infrastructure, support high-skilled jobs and empower local creative talent to build thriving, sustainable careers and businesses in their own communities,” she added.
The £3m pot is dedicated to opening up entry-level pathways as well as reskilling mid-career professionals, with £2m of the dedicated money being allotted to funding skills training programmes with NFTS.
The funding has been backed by culture secretary Lisa Nandy who said: “YouTube’s investment is supporting new talent and helping people build lasting careers in the creative sector regardless of where you live.
“With a target of 80% participants to be based out of London, it’s projects like this that will bring creative opportunities everywhere, strengthening our status as a global creative powerhouse.”
The training provided by the investment will cover digital production, audience growth and next-generation creative tools, with a focus on news and children’s content.
Jon Wardle, the director of the NFTS said the plan “represents a significant investment in the future of the UK’s creative workforce”.
He added: “We are incredibly proud £2 million will support the expansion of our partnership over the next three years, establishing YouTube as a key partner of the NFTS.
“Crucially, this expanded partnership will enable us to reach more people across the UK, whether they are taking their first steps into the industry, developing as creators or looking to adapt their skills for a rapidly changing landscape.”
This story first appeared on Screen’s sister site Broadcast
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